KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 344 trainees have reported for the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 Series 2/2025, which began on Sunday (May 11).
Although placed in two separate camps based on gender, all trainees will undergo the same training modules.
National Service Training Department (JLKN) director-general Datuk Ya'cob Samiran said male trainees are based at the 505 Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Pekan, Pahang, while female trainees are stationed at the 515 Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Kuala Lumpur.
“There is no difference in the training content. Any variation will be based on the physical capabilities and health of individual trainees.
“Physical training will be conducted in stages, with increasing levels of difficulty,” he said during a media briefing after observing the registration of female trainees at the 515 Territorial Army Camp today.
He added that the core structure of the training modules has been retained, with several enhancements introduced compared to PLKN 3.0 Series 1/2025.
Among the improvements is the separation of trainees by gender into two dedicated camps, while maintaining the same training framework—30% nation-building and 70% basic military training.
He also noted that trainees who have yet to report still have until noon on May 16 to do so.
“Those who fail to report by the deadline may be referred to the Legal Division under Section 18(1) of the National Service Training Act 2003 (Act 628),” he added.
The registration process is expected to take two to three days, as many trainees have requested late registration due to camp location or personal readiness.
He said the new structure also mandates military-style uniforms, and the training period has been reduced from three months to 45 days.
"University-bound students will complete their training at their institutions, but passing the course remains a compulsory national service requirement.
"Parents and the public are assured that the revamped PLKN 3.0 offers a safe, meaningful experience, free from issues such as bullying," he added.
The programme aims to build character, instil confidence, and foster civic responsibility among youth.
Ya’cob also confirmed that JLKN is open to accepting voluntary participants, subject to available slots, adding that 30 volunteers have already registered.
Following a seven-year suspension, the current intake includes 206 male and 138 female trainees aged between 18 and 25.
